Warning Signs

Am I Being Abused?

Typically, abusers become violent or hurtful out of their strong desire to have complete control. However, it can sometimes be challenging for people to realize when they are a part of an abusive relationship. Below are some common warning signs of intimate partner violence. If any of this occurs in your relationship or that of someone you know, it is a red flag indicating that the relationship is not entirely healthy.

Does your partner…

make you afraid of them?

make fun of you in front of your family or friends?

put down your accomplishments or goals?

make you feel like you can’t make decisions?

use force or threats to make you do what he/she wants?

tell you that you are nothing without him/her?

treat you roughly – grab, push, shove or hit you?

constantly call or show up to make sure you are where you said you would be?

blame you for how he/she feels or acts?

prevent you from doing things you would like?

deny your basic needs such as food or medical assistance?

call you bad and hurtful names?

try to control what you do, who you see and when?

If any of these warning signs are a part of your relationship, consider calling one of PADV's crisis lines. Click here to learn more about the different kinds of domestic abuse.